An itty-bitty island hides in plain sight, between Pearl Island and Roche Harbor in the San Juan archipelago.

Posey Island has two group campsites, each with a sweeping view. Grill up a hearty meal, sit back for a big-sky cloud show or a glorious sunset and enjoy a rare opportunity to do nothing but rest.

Posey Island Marine State Park is a 1-acre marine camping park with 1,000 feet of shoreline. It is located a quarter mile north of Pearl Island, near Roche Harbor, San Juan Island. Posey Island is part of the Cascadia Marine Trail. There is no potable water on the island, and visitors must pack out what they pack in. Camping reservations are required for both campsites, which are for the exclusive use of boaters arriving by human- or wind-powered watercraft.

All campsites are for the exclusive use of boaters arriving by human or wind-powered watercraft. Each campsite can accommodate a maximum of eight campers. This maximum number of campers is strictly enforced due to the small size of the island. No exception.  Paddlers and sailors must be prepared to seek other campsites if the campsites are at capacity.

Posey Island State Park Campground

Accessible from only human powered or wind powered boats (or if you are really ambitious, at super low tide, you can wade over from Pearl Island). Reservations are required to camp in either of the two group sites. I was here with a group with a kayak outfitter on a multi-day trip. The island is really small- only one acre! There is no water here (ironic when you are surrounded by water), and you need to pack out your trash (there is a compost bin), but there is a vault toilet (pretty smelly, but better than nothing!). There are a few trees you can hang a hammock from, but not many. We had to paddle to Pearl Island to scrounge for driftwood for a fire. We were there just before the fourth of July, so we were able to see some local fireworks, and of course there was lots of sea plane noise during the day. Saw some harbor seals and lots of birds, and saw bald eagles on the paddle over.